1996 Honda Civic DEL SOL Owners Manual

The doors can also be locked and unlocked from the outside with the key.

To lock the passenger's door when getting out of the car, push the lock tab in and close the door. To lock the driver's door, pull the door handle and push the lock tab in. Release the handle, then close the door.

Instruments and Controls

Keys and Locks

Power Door Locks

MASTER DOOR LOCK SWITCH

On Si and VTEC models in the U.S., and VTEC model in Canada The master door lock switch allows control of both door locks from the driver's door. Push the bottom of the switch to lock both doors, and the top to unlock them.

Instruments and Controls

Trunk

Both doors lock when you push in the lock tab on the driver's door, or lock the driver's door from the outside with the key. Only the driver's door unlocks when you use the key or lock tab. To unlock the passenger's door, use the master door lock switch or pull out the lock tab on the passenger's door.

Open the trunk by putting the master key in the lock and turning it clockwise.

Keep the trunk closed at all times while driving to avoid damaging the trunk and getting exhaust gas in the interior. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 26 .

Keys and Locks

ROOF HOLDER

You cannot put any luggage in the trunk without lifting up the roof holder when the roof is stored in the trunk. Make sure to lock the roof holder before closing the trunk lid. See page 98 for cargo loading and weight limit information.

TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE

MASTER KEY

You can also open the trunk by pulling the trunk release handle to the left of the driver's seat.

To protect items in the trunk when you need to give the key to someone else, lock the trunk release handle with the master key and give the other person the valet key.

Instruments and Controls

Keys and Locks, Seat Adjustments

Rear Locking Compartment

Seat Adjustments

To open either rear locking compartment, put the master key in the lock, turn it counterclockwise and lift the lid up. Push the lid to close. Turn the key clockwise to lock the compartment.

Adjust the seat before you start driving.

To adjust the seat forward and backward, pull up on the lever under the seat cushion's front edge. Move the seat to the desired position and release the lever. Try to move the seat to make sure it is locked in position.

To change the angle of the seat-back, pull up on the lever on the outside of the seat bottom. Move the seat-back to the desired position and release the lever. Let the seat-back latch in the new position.

Instruments and Controls

Seat Adjustments, Power Windows

Reclining the seat-back can decrease the protection you get from your seat belt in a crash.

You can slide under the seat belt and be seriously injured.

Adjust the seat-back to an upright position and sit well back in the seat.

Power Windows Your car's windows are electrically- powered. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II) to raise or lower any window.

Each door has a switch that controls its window. The rear window switch is located in the master control panel on the driver's armrest. To open the window, push the switch down and hold it. Release the switch when you want the window to stop. Close the window by pushing the switch up and holding it.

MAIN SWITCH

DRIVER'S WINDOW SWITCH To open the passenger's window or rear window from the master control panel, push down on the appropriate switch and hold it down until the window reaches the desired position. To close the window, push up on the window switch. Release the switch when the window gets to the position you want.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

The MAIN switch controls power to the passenger's and rear windows. With this switch off, the passenger's and rear windows cannot be raised or lowered. The MAIN switch does not affect the driver's window. Keep the MAIN switch off when you have children in the car so they do not injure themselves by operating the windows unintentionally.

Closing a power window on a child's hands or fingers can cause serious injury.

Make sure your child is away from the window before closing it.

Power Windows

The master control panel also con- tains these extra features:

AUTO — To open the driver's window fully, push the window switch firmly down and release it. The window automatically goes all the way down. To stop the window from going all the way down, push the window switch up briefly.

To open the driver's window only partially, push the window switch down lightly and hold it. The window will stop as soon as you release the switch.

The AUTO function only works to lower the driver's window. To raise the window, you must push the window switch up and hold it until the window reaches the desired position.

Instruments and Controls

Your Honda's roof panel has a single release handle on each side, making it easy to remove and install. When not in use, the roof panel can be stored in a special holder in the trunk.

Always clean and dry the roof panel before you remove it so dirt and water do not fall in the interior and trunk.

Make sure any items you store in the trunk will not tumble around and damage the roof panel.

One person should be able to remove and install the roof panel. Although the panel is not very heavy, you may find it awkward to handle because of its size. If so, get someone to assist you so you do not damage the panel.

Removable Roof Panel

Instruments and Controls

Removable Roof Panel

Removing and Storing

1. Open both windows.

2. Turn off the engine and set the

parking brake.

3. Open the trunk. Push on the roof

holder to make sure it is locked in place. Unlock the roof locks by pivoting them forward.

Instruments and Controls

LOCK TAB

RELEASE LEVER

4. Release each side of the roof by

pushing the lock tab sideways and pulling down the release lever. Carefully lift the roof straight up.

with the front facing forward.

Always store the removed roof in the holder. Never set the roof down where it could get damaged.

Removable Roof Panel

Installing 1. Open both windows or doors.

2. Turn off the engine and set the

parking brake.

3. Open the trunk.

LOCK LEVER

6. Lock the roof in the holder by

pivoting the lock levers toward the back of the car.

TAB

4. Release the roof from the holder by pushing the tabs and pivoting the lock levers forward.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Removable Roof Panel

Pull this edge out...

5. Lift the roof out of the holder.

Make sure the roof panel release levers are in the unlocked (down) position.

6. Set the roof in place on the car. Make sure all four corners are sitting flush with the car body. Move the roof from side-to-side to position the seals.

7. Check the fit of the seals at the

back of the roof. If the end of either roof seal is sitting on top of the body seal, reposition the body seal.

...so it fits flush.

Instruments and Controls

Removable Roof Panel

Protecting Against Leaks

8. Secure the roof by turning each

release lever until the lock tab clicks forward. Pull on the levers to make sure they are locked.

Do not push or pull on the door glass or side window when you are opening or closing the door.

Do not lean or sit on an open door.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Removable Roof Panel

High Pressure Water

BRUSHLESS CAR WASH

Be careful when you store items in the trunk. Make sure they will not damage the roof when you close and lock the roof holder. Also, make sure they cannot bounce around and damage the roof while driving.

A high pressure water stream can distort the roof seals and cause them to leak. Do not spray a high pressure stream from a hose directly at the roof seals.

Avoid automatic car washes that use only high pressure spray for cleaning.

Instruments and Controls

Roof Holder

Removable Roof Panel

Roof Unlatched Indicator

ROOF UNLATCHED INDICATOR

To reach items in the trunk when the roof is stored, pull the roof holder lock lever and lift the holder.

To secure the roof holder, push down on it until it locks. Make sure it is locked so it will not rattle or damage the trunk lid.

This indicator lights when you turn the ignition ON (II) if the roof panel is not fastened securely. Check both release levers to make sure they are locked.

Instruments and Controls

Mirrors

Adjusting the Power Mirrors

SELECTOR SWITCH

TAB

Keep the inside and outside mirrors clean and adjusted for best visibility. Be sure to adjust the mirrors before you start driving.

The inside mirror has day and night positions. The night position reduces glare from headlights behind you. Flip the tab on the bottom edge of the mirror to select the day or night position.

ADJUSTMENT SWITCH

On Si and VTEC models Adjust the outside mirrors with the adjustment switch on the driver's door:

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).

2. Move the selector switch to L

(driver's side) or R (passenger's side).

3. Push the appropriate edge of the

adjustment switch to move the mirror right, left, up or down.

4. When you finish, move the

selector switch to the center (off) position. This turns off the adjustment switch so you can't move a mirror out of position by accidentally bumping the switch.

Instruments and Controls

Parking Brake, Glove Box

Parking Brake

NOTICE

Glove Box

Driving the car with the parking brake applied can damage the rear brakes and axles.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER

To apply the parking brake, pull the lever up fully. To release it, pull up slightly, push the button, and lower the lever. The parking brake light on the instrument panel should go out when the parking brake is fully released (see page 32). If you try to drive the car without releasing the parking brake, the ABS cannot work properly.

GLOVE BOX

Open the glove box by pushing the knob. Close it with a firm push.

CONTINUED

Instruments and Controls

Glove Box, Digital Clock

An open glove box can cause serious injury to your passenger in a crash, even if the passenger is wearing the seat belt.

Always keep the glove box closed while driving.

Digital Clock

3. Press and hold the M button until

the numbers advance to the desired time.

You can use the R button to quickly set the time to the nearest hour. If the displayed time is before the half hour, pressing the R button sets the clock back to the previous hour. If the displayed time is after the half hour, pressing the R button sets the clock forward to the beginning of the next hour.

The digital clock displays the time with the ignition switch ON (II). To set the clock:

For example:

1:06 would RESET to 1:00. 1:52 would RESET to 2:00.

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II) to

display the time.

2. Press and hold the H button until the hour advances to the desired time.

Instruments and Controls

Console Compartment, Beverage Holder

Console Compartment

Beverage Holder

LOCKING TAB

CONSOLE COMPART- MENT

To open the console compartment, pull up the edge of the driver's side. To close, lower the lid and push it down until it latches.

The beverage holder is located inside the center console compart- ment lid. To use the beverage holder, open the center console compartment. Pull the beverage holder out while pushing the locking tab.

Use the beverage holder only when the car is parked. If you place cups in the holder while driving, the liquid may spill when you go over bumps or

around corners.

Be careful when you are using the beverage holder. A spilled liquid that is very hot can scald you or your passenger. Spilled liquids can also damage the upholstery, carpeting, and electrical components in the interior.

Instruments and Controls

Sun Visor, Cigarette Lighter, Ashtray

Sun Visor

Cigarette Lighter

Ashtray

To use the sun visor, pull it down.

Do not use the sun visor frame as a hand hold or to support yourself when you are getting into or out of the car with the roof removed. Too much force may cause it to come loose or break.

CIGARETTE LIGHTER

The cigarette lighter is next to the ashtray under the ashtray lid. The ignition switch must be in ACCES- SORY (I) or ON (II) for the cigarette lighter to work. To heat up the lighter, push it in. It will pop out when it is ready for use. Do not hold the lighter in while it is heating up, you could cause it to overheat.

ASHTRAY

Open the ashtray by lifting the lid up. To remove it for emptying, open the lid then pull it straight out of the holder. To reinstall the ashtray, put it back in the holder with the lid open and push it straight down.

Instruments and Controls

Ashtray, Interior Light

NOTICE

Use the ashtray only for cigarettes, cigars and other smoking materials. To prevent a possible fire and damage to your car, don't put paper or other things that can burn in the ashtray.

Interior Light

DOOR ACTIVATED

OFF

ON

The interior light has a three- position switch. In the OFF position, the light does not come on. In the center position, the interior light comes on when you open either door. In the ON position, the interior light stays on continuously.

Instruments and Controls

Comfort and Convenience Features

The heating and optional air conditioning systems in your Honda provide a comfortable driving environment in all weather conditions.

The audio system that is standard equipment on some models has many features. This section de- scribes those features and how to use them. (If you selected an optional audio system, refer to the operating instructions that came with it.)

Some models have an anti-theft audio system that requires a code number to enable it.

Heating and Cooling........................ 68
What Each Control Does............ 68
How to Use the System............... 70
To Turn Everything Off ............. 75
Audio System................................... 76
Operating the Radio.................... 76
Adjusting the Sound.................... 78
Radio Frequencies....................... 79
Radio Reception........................... 79
Operating the Cassette Player... 81
Caring for the Cassette Player... 83
Operating the Optional CD

Changer.................................... 84
Protecting Compact Discs.......... 86
CD Error Indications................... 87
Theft Protection........................... 88

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

Proper use of the Heating and Cooling system can make the interior dry and comfortable, and keep the windows clear for best visibility.

If your vehicle does not have air conditioning, it can be installed at any time. Your dealer will install a Genuine Honda air conditioning system that meets Honda's high quality standards and is designed to exactly fit your vehicle. Please contact your dealer for more information.

What Each Control Does

Fan Control Dial Turning this dial clockwise increases the fan's speed, which increases air flow.

Comfort and Convenience Features

MODE BUTTONS RECIRCULATION

BUTTON

FAN CONTROL DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

Temperature Control Lever Sliding this lever to the right increases the temperature of the air flow.

Air Conditioning (A/C) Button (Optional) This button turns the air condi- tioning ON and OFF. The indicator in the button lights when the A/C is on.

Recirculation Button This button controls the source of the air going into the system. When the indicator in this button is lit, air from the vehicle's interior is sent through the system again (Recircula- tion mode). When the indicator is off, air is brought in from outside the vehicle (Fresh Air mode).

Mode Buttons These buttons let you select which vents the air flows from.

Air flows from the center

and corner vents in the dashboard.

Air flow is divided between the vents in the dashboard and the floor vents.

Air flows from the floor

vents.

Air flow is divided between

the floor vents and the defroster vents at the base of the windshield.

Air flows from the defroster vents at the base of the windshield.

Heating and Cooling

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

Vent Controls

CENTER VENT

CORNER VENT

You can adjust the direction of the air coming from the dashboard vents by moving the tab in the center of each vent up-and-down and side-to- side.

The corner vents and the center console vent on the driver's side can be closed by turning the vent approximately 45° clockwise.

Comfort and Convenience Features

How to Use the System This section covers how to set up the system controls for ventilation, heating, cooling, dehumidifying, and defrosting.

The engine must be running for the heater and air conditioning to generate hot and cold air. The heater uses engine coolant to warm the air. If the engine is cold, it will be several minutes before you feel warm air coming from the system. The air conditioning does not rely on engine temperature.

It is best to leave the system in Fresh Air mode under almost all conditions. Keeping the system in Recirculation mode, particularly with the A/C off, can cause the windows to fog up. Switch to Recirculation mode when you are driving through smoky or dusty conditions, then switch back to Fresh Air mode when the condition clears.

The outside air intakes for the heating and cooling system are at the base of the windshield. Keep these clear of leaves and other debris.

Heating and Cooling

MODE BUTTONS

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

FAN CONTROL DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

Ventilation The flow-through ventilation system draws in outside air, circulates it through the interior, then exhausts it through vents near the rear window.

1. Slide the temperature control lever

all the way to the left. Make sure the A/C is off.

2. Select 3. Set the fan to the desired speed.

and Fresh Air mode.

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

To Cool with Optional A/C 1. Turn on the A/C by pressing the

button. The light in the button should come on.

2. Make sure the temperature

control lever is all the way to the left.

3. Select 4. Set the fan to the desired speed.

and Fresh Air mode.

If the interior is very warm from being parked in the sun, you can cool it down more rapidly by setting up the controls this way:

1. Start the engine. 2. Turn on the A/C by pressing the button. Make sure the tempera- ture control lever is all the way to the left.

3. Set the fan to maximum speed. 4. Open the windows partially. Select

and Recirculation mode.

Comfort and Convenience Features

MODE BUTTONS

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

FAN CONTROL DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

When the interior has cooled down to a more comfortable temperature, close the windows and set the controls as described for normal cooling.

Air conditioning places an extra load on the engine. Watch the engine coolant temperature gauge (see page 36) when driving in stop-and-go traffic or climbing a long, steep hill. If it moves near the red zone, turn off the A/C until the gauge reads normally.

To Heat To warm the interior:

1. Start the engine. 2. Select 3. Set the tan to the desired speed. 4. Adjust the warmth of the air with

and Fresh Air mode.

the temperature control lever.

To Heat and Dehumidify with Optional Air Conditioning Air conditioning, as it cools, removes moisture from the air. When used in combination with the heater, it makes the interior warm and dry.

1. Switch the fan on. 2. Turn on the air conditioning. 3. Select 4. Adjust the temperature control

and Fresh Air mode.

lever so the mixture of heated and cooled air feels comfortable.

Heating and Cooling

To Defog and Defrost To remove fog from the inside of the windows:

1. Switch the fan on. 2. Turn on the air conditioning

(optional).

3. Select Fresh Air mode and 4. Adjust the temperature control

lever so the air flow from the defroster vents feels warm.

5. Turn on the rear window defogger

to help clear the rear window.

This setting is suitable for all driving conditions whenever the outside temperature is above 32° F (0°C).

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heating and Cooling

To remove exterior frost or ice from the windshield and side windows after the car has been sitting out in cold weather:

1. Start the engine. 2. Select the Fresh Air mode and

3. Switch the fan and temperature

controls to maximum.

To rapidly remove exterior frost or ice from the windshield (on very cold days), first select the Recirculation mode. Once the windshield is clear, select the Fresh Air mode to avoid fogging the windows.

Comfort and Convenience Features

MODE BUTTONS

RECIRCULATION BUTTON

FAN CONTROL DIAL

TEMPERATURE CONTROL LEVER

AIR CONDITIONING BUTTON

Heating and Cooling

These settings direct all the air flow to the defroster vents at the base of the windshield and the side window defroster vents. The air flow will get warmer and clear the windows faster as the engine warms up. You can close the corner vents by turning them 45° clockwise. This will send more warm air to the windshield de- froster vents.

For safety, make sure you have a clear view through all the windows before driving away.

To Turn Everything Off To shut off the system temporarily, turn off the fan and slide the temperature control lever all the way to the left.

You should shut the system com- pletely off only for the first few minutes of driving in cold weather, until the engine coolant warms up enough to operate the heater. Keep the fan on at all other times so stale air does not build up in the interior.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

AM/FM/Cassette Stereo Audio System On Si and VTEC models Your Honda's audio system provides clear reception on both AM and FM bands, while the preset buttons allow you to easily select your favorite stations.

The cassette system features Dolby B* noise reduction, automatic sensing of chromium-dioxide (CrO2) tape, and autoreverse for continuous play.

The Anti-theft feature will disable the system if it is disconnected from the car's battery. To get the system working again, you must enter a code number (see page 88 ).

* Dolby noise reduction manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corpo- ration. "DOLBY" and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories

Licensing Corporation.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Operating the Radio The ignition switch must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II). Turn the system on and adjust the volume by turning the ON/VOL knob.

the bar when the display reaches the desired frequency. To change the frequency in small increments, press and release the TUNE/SEEK bar quickly.

The band and frequency that the radio was last tuned to is displayed. To change bands, press the AM or FM button. On the FM band, ST will be displayed if the station is broad- casting in stereo. Stereo reproduction on AM is not available.

You can use any of three methods to find radio stations on the selected band: TUNE, SEEK, or the Preset buttons.

TUNE — Use the TUNE/SEEK bar to tune the radio to a desired frequency. Press the right side to tune to a higher frequency, or the left side frequency. The frequency numbers will start to change rapidly. Release

to tune to a lower

SEEK — The SEEK function searches the band for a station with a strong signal. To activate it, press the TUNE/SEEK bar until you hear a beep, then release it. Depending on which side of the bar you press, the system scans upward or downward from the current frequency. It stops when it finds a station with a strong signal.

Preset — You can store the fre- quencies of your favorite radio stations in the six preset buttons. Each button will store one frequency on the AM band, and two on the FM band.

To store a frequency:

1. Select the desired band, AM or FM. FM1 and FM2 let you store two frequencies with each Preset button.

2. Use the TUNE or SEEK function

to tune the radio to a desired station.

3. Pick the Preset button you want for that station. Press the button and hold it until you hear a beep.

4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to store a total of six stations on AM and twelve on FM.

Once a station's frequency is stored, simply press and release the proper preset button to tune to it.

The preset frequencies will be lost if your vehicle's battery goes dead or is disconnected.

Audio System

OIM/VOL KNOB

AM BUTTON

STEREO INDICATOR

TUNE/SEEK BAR

PRESET BUTTONS

FM BUTTON

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

Adjusting the Sound Balance/Fader — These two controls adjust the strength of the sound coming from each speaker. The Balance control adjusts the side- to-side strength, while the Fader control adjusts the front-to-back strength.

To use these controls, push on the knob to get them to pop out. Adjust the Fader to your liking by turning the outside ring. Adjust the Balance by turning the knob. Push the controls back in when you are done.

Treble/Bass — Use these controls to adjust the tone to your liking. Push on the controls to get them to pop out. Adjust the Bass by turning the outer ring. Adjust the Treble by turning the knob. Push the controls back in when you are finished so you cannot change the settings by accidentally bumping them.

Comfort and Convenience Features

BASS CONTROL

TREBLE CONTROL

FADER CONTROL

BALANCE CONTROL

You can use the Balance control knob to turn off the illumination of the audio system. Push the Balance/ Fader controls so they pop out, then pull the Balance control knob out slightly farther.

Check the Balance control knob if the audio system does not illuminate with the instrument panel lights.

Radio Frequencies Your Honda's radio can receive the complete AM and FM bands. Those bands cover these frequen- cies:

AM band: 530 to 1,710 kilohertz FM band: 87.7 to 107.9 megahertz

Radio stations on the AM band are assigned frequencies at least ten kilohertz apart (530, 540, 550). Stations on the FM band are assigned frequencies at least 0.2
megahertz apart (87.9, 88.1, 88.3).

Stations must use these exact frequencies. It is fairly common for stations to round-off the frequency in their advertising, so your radio could display a frequency of 100.9 even though the announcer may identify the station as "FM101."

Radio Reception How well your Honda's radio receives stations is dependent on many factors, such as the distance from the station's transmitter, nearby large objects, and atmos- pheric conditions.

A radio station's signal gets weaker as you get farther away from its transmitter. If you are listening to an AM station, you will notice the sound volume becoming weaker, and the station drifting in and out. If you are listening to an FM station, you will see the stereo indicator flickering off and on as the signal weakens. Eventually, the stereo indicator will go off and the sound will fade completely as you get out of range of the station's signal.

Audio System

Driving very near the transmitter of a station that is broadcasting on a frequency close to the frequency of the station you are listening to can also affect your radio's reception. You may temporarily hear both stations, or hear only the station you are close to.

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

Electrical interference from passing vehicles and stationary sources can cause temporary reception problems.

Radio signals, especially on the FM band, are deflected by large objects such as buildings and hills. Your radio then receives both the direct signal from the station's transmitter, and the deflected signal. This causes the sound to distort or flutter. This is a main cause of poor radio reception in city driving.

Radio reception can be affected by atmospheric conditions such as thunderstorms, high humidity, and even sunspots. You may be able to receive a distant radio station one day and not receive it the next day because of a change in conditions.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Operating the Cassette Player Turn the audio system ON. Make sure the tape opening on the cassette is facing to the right, then insert the cassette most of the way into the slot. The system will pull it in the rest of the way, and begin to play.

The tape direction indicator will light to show you which side of the cassette is playing. The indicates the side you inserted facing upward is now playing. If you want to play the other side, press the PROG button.

If the tape was recorded with Dolby B noise reduction, turn it on by pressing the

button.

Audio System

EJECT BUTTON

CASSETTE SLOT

FF BUTTON

REW BUTTON

PLAY BUTTON

TAPE DIRECTION INDICATOR

PROG BUTTON

DOLBY BUTTON

TMS BUTTON

CONTINUED

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

When the system reaches the end of the tape, it will automatically reverse direction and play the other side. If you want to remove the cassette from the drive, press the EJECT button.

The system will automatically eject the cassette whenever you turn off the system or the ignition switch.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Tape Search Functions With a cassette playing, you can use the FF, REW, or TMS function to find a desired program.

FF/REW — Fast Forward and Rewind move the tape rapidly. Press the REW button to rewind the tape, or the FF button to fast forward. Press the PLAY button to take the system out of rewind or fast forward. If the system reaches the end of the tape while in fast forward or rewind, it automatically stops that function, reverses direction, and begins to play.

TMS — The Tape Music Search Function allows you to find the beginning of a song or passage. To activate TMS, press the TMS button. The light in the button will remain on as a reminder that it is activated. Then press FF or REW to move the tape forward or backward. When the system reaches the beginning of the next song or passage (FF), or the beginning of the current one (REW), it goes back to PLAY mode. Deactivate the TMS by pressing the TMS button again.

The TMS function uses silent periods on the tape to find the end of a song or passage. This feature may not work to your satisfaction if there is almost no gap between selections, a high noise level between selections, or a silent period in the middle of a selection.

Caring for the Cassette Player The cassette player picks up dirt and oxides from the tape. This contami- nation builds up over time and causes the sound quality to degrade. To prevent this, you should clean the player after every 30 hours of use. Your dealer has a cleaning kit available.

As a reminder, after every 30 hours of use the system will flash CLEAN in the display for 5 seconds every time you insert a cassette in the player. After you clean the player, reset the CLEAN indicator by pressing the Reset button while playing a tape. Hold the button until you hear a beep and the indicator goes out.

If you do not clean the cassette player regularly, it may eventually become impossible to remove the contamination with a normal cleaning kit.

CLEAN INDICATOR

RESET BUTTON

Use 100-minute or shorter cassettes. Cassettes longer than that use thinner tape that may break or jam the drive.

Look at the cassette before you insert it. If the tape is loose, tighten it by turning a hub with a pencil or your finger. If the label is peeling off, remove it from the cassette or it could cause the cassette to jam in the player. Never try to insert a warped or damaged cassette in the player.

Audio System

The player automatically ejects cassettes that do not play properly. If it ejects a cassette before it begins to play, it is probably defective and should not be inserted again. You may have a cassette suddenly stop playing, reverse directions once or twice and then eject. This is normally an indication the tape is wound unevenly. It should play after the tape is manually rewound.

When they are not in use, store cassettes in their cases to protect them from dust and moisture. Never place cassettes where they will be exposed to direct sunlight, high heat, or high humidity. If a cassette is exposed to extreme heat or cold, let it reach a moderate temperature before inserting it in the player.

Never try to insert foreign objects into the cassette player.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

Operating the Optional CD Changer A Compact Disc changer is available from your dealer. It holds up to six discs, providing several hours of continuous entertainment. You operate the CD changer with the same controls used for the radio and cassette player.

Your dealer also has an accessory in- dash single CD player available that is operated by the radio controls. To operate this unit, use the instructions (except for those relating to multiple discs) in this section.

Using the instructions that came with the changer, load the desired CDs in the magazine, and load the magazine in the changer.

Comfort and Convenience Features

ON/VOL KNOB

CD BUTTON

TUNE/SEEK BAR

To operate the CD changer, the ignition must be in ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) and the audio system must be on. If you are listening to a cassette, eject it.

Press the CD button until "CD" appears in the display. The system will start to play the first track of the first disc in the magazine. When that disc ends, the next disc in the magazine is loaded and played. After the last disc finishes, the system returns to disc 1.

You can use the TUNE/SEEK bar to select tracks within a disc. If you press and release the TUNE/SEEK bar, the system will move to the beginning of a track. Press the side to move to the beginning of the next track, and the side to move to the beginning of the current track.

To select a different disc than the one that is playing, press the appropriate preset button (1 — 6). The system will load that disc and begin playing it from the first track.

If you press and hold the TUNE/ SEEK bar, the system will continue to move across tracks. Release the bar when you think it has reached the desired place on the disc.

Audio System

To take the system out of CD mode, press the AM or FM button, or insert a cassette in the player. When you return to CD mode, play will contin- ue at the same disc and track.

If you turn the system off while a CD is playing, either with the ON/VOL knob or the ignition switch, play will continue at the same disc and track when you turn it back on.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Audio System

Protecting Compact Discs Handle a CD by its edges; never touch either surface. Contamination from fingerprints, liquids, felt-tip pens, and labels can cause the CD to not play properly, or possibly jam in the drive.

When a CD is not being played, store it in its case to protect it from dust and other contamination. To prevent warpage, keep CDs out of direct sunlight and extreme heat.

Comfort and Convenience Features

To clean a disc, use a clean soft cloth. Wipe across the disc from the center to the outside edge.

A new CD may be rough on the inner and outer edges. The small plastic pieces causing this roughness can flake off and fall on the re- cording surface of the disc, causing skipping or other problems. Remove these pieces by rubbing the inner and outer edges with the side of a pencil or pen.

Never try to insert foreign objects in the CD player or the magazine.

CD Error Indications If you see an error indication in the display while in CD mode, find the cause in the chart to the right. If you cannot clear the error indication, take the car to your Honda dealer.

Audio System

Comfort and Convenience Features

You will have to store your favorite stations in the Preset buttons after the system begins working. Your original settings were lost when power was disconnected.

If your car's battery is disconnected or goes dead, the audio system will disable itself. If this happens, you will see "Code" in the frequency display the next time you turn on the system. Use the Preset buttons to enter the five-digit code. If it is entered correctly, the radio will start playing.

If you make a mistake entering the code, do not start over or try to correct your mistake. Complete the five-digit sequence, then enter the correct code. You have three tries to enter the correct code. If you are unsuccessful in three attempts, you must then leave the system on for one hour before trying again.

Audio System

Theft Protection On Si and VTEC models Your car's audio system will disable itself if it is disconnected from electrical power for any reason. To make it work again, the user must enter a specific five-digit code in the Preset buttons. Because there are hundreds of number combinations possible from five digits, making the system work without knowing the exact code is nearly impossible.

You should have received a card that lists your audio system's code number and serial number. It is best to store this card in a safe place at home. In addition, you should write the audio system's serial number in this Owner's Manual. If you should happen to lose the card, you must obtain the code number from your Honda dealer. To do this, you will need the system's serial number.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Before you begin driving your Honda, you should know what gasoline to use, and how to check the levels of important fluids. You also need to know how to properly stow luggage or packages. This section will help you. If you plan to add any accesso- ries to your car, please read the information in this section first.

Before Driving

Break-in Period................................ 90
Gasoline............................................ 90
Oxygenated Fuels........................ 90
Driving in Foreign Countries..... 91
Service Station Procedures ............ 92
Filling the Fuel Tank................... 92
Opening the Hood....................... 93
Fuel Economy.................................. 96
Vehicle Condition........................ 96
Driving Habits.............................. 96
Accessories....................................... 97
Loading Cargo.................................. 98

Before Driving

Break-in Period, Gasoline

Break-in Period Help assure your car's future reliability and performance by paying extra attention to how you drive during the first 1,000 km (600 miles). During this period:

Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration.

If you need to add oil, use the engine oil recommended in this owner's manual.

Avoid hard braking. New brakes need to be brokeri-in by moderate use for the first 300 km (200
miles).

You should follow these same re- commendations with an overhauled or exchanged engine, or when the brakes are relined.

Before Driving

Gasoline Your Honda is designed to operate most effectively on unleaded gasoline.

(VTEC model) Use a premium unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 91 or higher.

(S and Si models) Use an unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 86 or higher. Use of a lower octane gasoline can cause a persistent, heavy metallic rapping noise in the engine that can lead to mechanical damage.

We recommend gasolines containing detergent additives that help prevent fuel system and engine deposits.

Using gasoline containing lead will damage your car's emission controls. This contributes to air pollution and can void certain parts of your warranty.

If you are unable to find premium unleaded gasoline, you may substi- tute an unleaded regular gasoline. The engine will compensate for the lower octane, but you may notice a slight decrease in power as a result.

Oxygenated Fuels Some conventional gasolines are being blended with alcohol or an ether compound. These gasolines are collectively referred to as oxygenated fuels. To meet clean air standards, some areas of the United States and Canada use oxygenated fuels to help reduce emissions.

If you use an oxygenated fuel, be sure it is unleaded and meets the minimum octane rating requirement.

Gasoline

Before using an oxygenated fuel, try to confirm the fuel's contents. Some states/provinces require this information to be posted on the pump.

The following are the EPA-approved percentages of oxygenates:

ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) You may use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol by volume. Gasoline containing ethanol may he marketed under the name "Gasohol."

MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) You may use gasoline containing up to 15% MTBE by volume.

METHANOL (methyl or wood alcohol) You may use gasoline containing up to 5% methanol by volume as long as it also contains cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors to protect the fuel system. Gasoline containing more than 5% methanol by volume may cause starting and/or perform- ance problems. It may also damage metal, rubber and plastic parts of your fuel system.

If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms, try another service station or switch to another brand of gasoline.

Fuel system damage or performance problems resulting from the use of an oxygenated fuel containing more than the percentages of oxygenates given above are not covered under warranty.

Driving in Foreign Countries If you are planning to take your Honda outside the U. S. or Canada, contact the tourist bureaus in the areas you will be traveling in to find out about the availability of unleaded gasoline with the proper octane rating.

If unleaded gasoline is not available, be aware that using leaded gasoline in your Honda will affect perfor- mance and fuel mileage, and damage its emissions controls. It will no longer comply with U. S. and Canadian emissions regulations, and will be illegal to operate in North America. To bring your car back into compliance will require the replace- ment of several components, such as the oxygen sensor and the three way catalytic converter. These replace- ments are not covered under warranty.

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

Filling the Fuel Tank

Pull

1. The fuel fill is on the driver's side

of the car. Park with that side closest to the service station pumps.

2. Open the fuel fill door by pulling

on the handle to the left of the driver's seat.

Before Driving

Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel.

Stop the engine and keep heat, sparks, and flame away. Handle fuel only outdoors. Wipe up spills immediately.

3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly.

You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes.

4. Stop filling the tank after the fuel pump automatically clicks off. Do not try to "top off" the tank, leave some room for the fuel to expand with temperature changes.

5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on,

tighten it until it clicks more than twice.

6. Push the fuel fill door until it

latches.

FUEL FILL CAP

Opening the Hood

LATCH

Service Station Procedures

HOOD RELEASE HANDLE

1. Shift to Park or Neutral and set the parking brake. Pull the hood release handle, located under the left lower corner of the dashboard. The hood will pop up slightly.

2. Standing in front of the car, put

your fingers under the front edge of the hood to the left of center. Slide your hand to the right until you feel the hood latch handle. Push this handle to the right until it releases the hood. Lift the hood.

SUPPORT ROD

3. Pull the support rod out of its clip

and insert the end into the hole on the driver's side of the hood.

CONTINUED

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

To close the hood, lift it up slightly to remove the support rod from the hole. Put the support rod back into its holding clip. Lower the hood to about a foot above the fender, then let it drop.

Oil Check

DIPSTICK

Check the engine oil level every time you fill the car with fuel. Wait at least two minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil.

1. Remove the dipstick (orange

handle).

2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean

cloth or paper towel.

Before Driving

Service Station Procedures

Engine Coolant Check

RESERVE TANK

UPPER MARK LOWER MARK

MAX

MIN

3. Insert it all the way back in its tube.

4. Remove it again and check the level. It should be between the upper and lower marks.

If it is near or below the lower mark, see Adding Oil on page 126 .

Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines. If it is below the MIN line, see Adding Engine Coolant on page 131 for information on adding the proper coolant.

Refer to Periodic Checks on page 124 for information on checking other items in your Honda.

Before Driving

Driving Habits You can improve fuel economy by driving moderately. Rapid acceler- ation, abrupt cornering, and hard braking use more fuel.

Always drive in the highest gear that allows the engine to run and acceler- ate smoothly.

Depending on traffic conditions, try to maintain a constant speed. Every time you slow down and speed up, your car uses extra fuel. Use the cruise control, when appropriate, to increase fuel economy.

A cold engine uses more fuel than a warm engine. It is not necessary to "warm-up" a cold engine by letting it idle for a long time. You can drive away in about a minute, no matter how cold it is outside. The engine will warm up faster, and you get better fuel economy. To cut down on the number of "cold starts," try to combine several short trips into one.

The air conditioning puts an extra load on the engine which makes it use more fuel. Turn off the A/C to cut down on air conditioning use. Use the flow-through ventilation when the outside air temperature is moderate.

Fuel Economy

The condition of your car and your driving habits are the two most important things that affect the fuel mileage you get,

Vehicle Condition Always maintain your car according to the maintenance schedule. This will keep it in top operating condition.

An important part of that mainte- nance is the Periodic Checks (see page 124 ). For example, an under- inflated tire causes more "rolling resistance," which uses fuel. It also wears out faster, so check the tire pressure at least monthly. In winter, the build-up of snow on your car's underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel mileage and reduces the chance of corrosion.

Before Driving

Your Honda dealer has many acces- sories available to personalize your car. Some of these are audio systems, alloy wheels, air conditioning, and color-coordinated carpet floor mats. All Genuine Honda Accessories have been approved by our engineers for installation and use on your car, and are covered by warranty.

Accessories

Some non-Honda accessories you can buy in the "aftermarket" are designed for universal applications. Although they may fit your Honda, they may not be within factory specifications. For example, after- market wheels may not meet Honda's specifications for width and offset. They could cause suspension problems that would not be covered by your warranty. Improperly- designed accessories can adversely affect your car's handling and stability.

Electronic communications equip- ment, such as cellular telephones and two-way radios are regulated by the FCC (DOC in Canada) and should not interfere with your car's systems. Improper installation, or using electrical equipment not in- tended for mobile use may interfere with your car's operation. If you want to install a cellular telephone, other mobile communications equipment or even add-on stereo amplifiers, please discuss it first with your Honda dealer.

Your car has several computer- controlled systems, including the SRS system, the engine's fuel injection, and the Anti-lock brake system. Strong electronic inter- ference can affect their operation.

In many cases, improper installation is the real cause of problems with aftermarket accessories. Have these accessories installed by qualified technicians who are familiar with your Honda. If possible, have your Honda dealer inspect the final installation.

Before Driving

Loading Cargo

The maximum load you can carry in your Honda is 185 kg (400 Ibs). It includes the total weight of all passengers and their belongings, and any accessories. This 185 kg (400
Ibs) figure is shown as the Vehicle Capacity Weight on the tire infor- mation label attached to the inside of the glove box.

To figure out how much cargo you can carry:

Figure the total "occupant weight" you will be transporting. To do this, multiply yourself and your passenger by 70 kg (150 Ibs).

Subtract this number from the Vehicle Capacity Weight (185 k g/ 400 Ibs).

Before Driving

This final number is the total weight of cargo you can load in or on the car. With two occupants (a driver and a passenger), the maximum recommended weight for cargo is 45
kg (100 Ibs).

If you must cany large objects that prevent you from closing the trunk lid, be aware that exhaust gas can enter the interior. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 26.

Where you store this cargo, and how well you secure it, are just as important as how much it weighs. Make sure you load cargo so it will not shift while driving. When storing items in the trunk, place them as far forward as possible.

Never place items on top of the rear locking compartments behind the seats. Those items can fly forward and injure you or your passenger if you brake hard or are involved in a collision.

This section gives you tips on starting the engine under various conditions, and how to operate the manual and automatic transmissions. It also includes important informa- tion on your car's braking system.

Driving

Preparing to Drive......................... 100
Starting the Engine........................ 101

Starting in Cold Weather

at High Altitude ..................... 101
5-speed Manual Transmission..... 102
Recommended Shift Points...... 103
Maximum Speeds...................... 103
Automatic Transmission............... 104
Shift Lever Positions................. 104
Maximum Speeds...................... 107
Shift Lock Release..................... 108
The Braking System...................... 109
Brake Wear Indicators.............. 109
Brake System Design................ 110
Anti-lock Brakes........................ 110
Driving in Bad Weather................ 112
Towing a Trailer............................ 114

Driving

10.Turn the ignition ON (II). Check the indicator lights in the instru- ment panel.

11.Start the engine (see page 101 ).

12.Check the gauges and indicator

lights in the instrument panel (see page 31).

Preparing to Drive

You should do the following checks and adjustments every day before you drive your car.

1. Make sure all windows, mirrors, and outside lights are clean and unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, or ice.

2. Check that the hood and trunk are fully closed, and the roof panel is secured.

5. Check the adjustment of the seat

(see page 50 ).

6. Check the adjustment of the

inside and outside mirrors (see page 60).

7. Check the adjustment of the

steering wheel (see page 42).

8. Make sure the doors are securely

closed and locked.

3. Visually check the tires. If a tire

looks low, use a gauge to check its pressure.

9. Fasten your seat belt. Check that your passenger has fastened his seat belt (see page 7).

4. Check that any items you may be

carrying with you inside are stored properly or fastened down securely.

Driving

1. Apply the parking brake.

2. In cold weather, turn off all

electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.

3. Manual Transmission:

Push the clutch pedal down all the way. START (III) does not function unless the clutch pedal is depressed.

Automatic Transmission: Make sure the shift lever is in Park. Press on the brake pedal.

4. Without touching the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to the START (III) position. If the engine does not start right away, do not hold the key in START (III) for more than 15 seconds at a time. Pause for at least 10 seconds before trying again.

5. If the engine does not start within

15 seconds, or starts but stalls right away, repeat step 4 with the accelerator pedal pressed half-way down. If the engine starts, release pressure on the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.

6. If the engine still does not start,

press the accelerator pedal all the way down and hold it there while starting in order to clear flooding. As before, keep the ignition key in the START (III) position for no more than 15 seconds. Return to step 5 if the engine does not start. If it starts, lift your foot off the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race.

Starting in Cold Weather at High Altitude (Above 2,400 meters/ 8,000 feet) An engine is harder to start in cold weather. The thinner air found at high altitude above 2,400 meters

Starting the Engine

(8,000 feet) adds to the problem. Use the following procedure:

1. Turn off all electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery.

2. Push the accelerator pedal half- way to the floor and hold it there while starting the engine. Do not hold the ignition key in START (III) for more than 15 seconds. When the engine starts, release the accelerator pedal gradually as the engine speeds up and smooths out.

3. If the engine fails to start in step 2,

push the accelerator pedal to the floor and hold it there while you try to start the engine for no more than 15 seconds. If the engine does not start, return to step 2.

Driving

5-speed Manual Transmission

Rapid slowing or speeding-up can cause loss of control on slippery surfaces. If you crash, you can be injured.

Use extra care when driving on slippery surfaces.

Come to a full stop before you shift into reverse. You can damage the transmission by trying to shift into reverse with the car moving. Depress the clutch pedal and pause for a few seconds before putting it in reverse, or shift into one of the forward gears for a moment. This stops the gears so they won't "grind".

You can get extra braking from the engine when slowing down by shifting to a lower gear. This extra braking can help you maintain a safe speed and prevent your brakes from overheating while going down a steep hill. Before downshifting, make sure engine speed will not go into the tachometer's red zone in the lower gear. Refer to the Maximum Speeds chart.

The manual transmission is syn- chronized in all forward gears for smooth operation. It has a lockout so you cannot shift directly from Fifth to Reverse. When shifting up or down, make sure you pusTh the clutch pedal down all the way, shift to the next gear, and let the pedal up gradually. When you are not shifting, do not rest your foot on the clutch pedal. This can cause your clutch to wear out faster.

Driving

(VTEC)

Recommended Shift Points Drive in the highest gear that lets the engine run and accelerate smoothly. This will give you the best fuel economy and effective emis- sions control. The following shift points are recommended:

(S, Si)

5-speed Manual Transmission

Maximum Speeds The speeds in this table are the maximums for the given gears. If you exceed these speeds, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer's red zone. If this occurs, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine's computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the RPM below the red zone.

(S)

CONTINUED

Driving

5-speed Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission

Shift Lever Positions

Automatic Transmission Your Honda's transmission has four forward speeds. It has a "lock-up" torque converter for better fuel economy. You may feel what seems like another shift when the converter locks.

This display is on the instrument panel. It shows you the position of the shift lever.

(Si)

(VTEC)

Driving

SHIFT LEVER The shift lever has seven positions. It must be in Park or Neutral to start the engine. When you are stopped in D4, D3, 2,1, N or R, press firmly on the brake pedal and keep your foot off the accelerator pedal.

Automatic Transmission

Park (P) — This position mechani- cally locks the transmission. Use Park whenever you are turning off or starting the engine. To shift out of Park, you must press on the brake pedal and have your foot off the accelerator pedal. Press the release button on the side of the shift lever to move it.

CONTINUED

Driving